History

Montblanc, synonymous with exquisite writing culture for the past 100 years, follows lasting values such as quality and traditional craftsmanship. Its uncompromising demands on shape, style, materials and workmanship are reflected in all its products.

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1906

The Fathers of Stylish Writing

The start of the "modern" new century had a simulating effect on inventors and craftsmen. Ingenuity and
imagination helped the fountain pen to make its technical and commercial breakthrough as a writing instrument. It was a Hamburg banker, Alfred Nehemias, and a Berlin engineer, August Eberstein, together who recognised the signs of time and decided to produce simplicissimus pens.
After a short period of time Wilhelm Dziambor, Christian Lausen and later Claus Johannes Voss took over the business and thus laid the founda/on for the future internationally successful company Montblanc.

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1908

The Simplo Filler Pen Co.

“Manufacturers of high-class gold and fountain pens” - Montblanc started its history by making this confident claim for itself.
For the time being, the partners took the name “Simplo Filler Pen Co.”. “Simplo” referred to either the idea of the simplicissimus pen or the word “simple,” which described new pen design, including a “build-in” ink-well.
After the Hamburg businessman Claus Johannes Voss joined the company, the “Simplo Filler Pen Co.” was established with its headquarter situated in the “Industriepalast” on Caffamacherreihe in Hamburg and received entry into the commercial register.

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1909

The Fathers of Stylish Writing

The safety fountain pen “Rouge et Noir” appeared on the market.
The name “Montblanc” was established; and rumour has it that it took place during a card game when a relative of one of the partners drew an inspired analogy between the pen, which had become the pinnacle of writing instruments, and the Mont Blanc, the most majestic and highest peak in the Alps.

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1910

The name of an icon

The name “Montblanc“ was registered as a trademark and henceforth used for all writing instruments produced by the company.
Furthermore the technically improved fountain pen “Montblanc“ was introduced. The white tip on the pen cap was the forerunner of what would become the world famous white star.
Paris and London became the venues of Simplo‘s first representatives abroad.

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1913

A star is born

The Montblanc star emblem became the brand logo and trademark. All writing instruments produced by the “Simplo Filler Pen Co. “ ever since would include the unmistakable rounded star.
The shape would represent the snow-covered peak of the Mont Blanc - the highest European mountain, symbolising the brand’s commitment to the highest quality and finest European craftsmanship.

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1924

Birth of a myth

It was the year of the launch of the legendary “Meisterstück” and the beginning of its successful career as the world’s most celebrated writing instrument of all time.
The "Meisterstück 149" fountain pen soon became the ultimate symbol for writing culture and the style icon for perfect timeless design.

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1926

Changing times

At the end of the twenties, Montblanc quickly expanded into a well-known name in more than 60 different countries.
Impressive advertising campaigns, like fitting cars with an oversize fountain pen as well as the first advertising planes taking Montblanc name into the “third dimension,” attracted tremendous attention.

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1929

A difference in elevation

For the first time, the heart of the Montblanc "Meisterstück" - its nib - was engraved with the number “4810.”
This represents the height of the mountain Mont Blanc, and acts as a sign of supreme quality, and "4810" would find a place on all "Meisterstück" nibs from this time forth.

1934

Business news

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1935

More than just writing

By issuing a “lifetime guarantee" for the "Meisterstück," Montblanc demonstrated that it always paid off for the customer to opt for the very best.
Montblanc expanded its product range by taking over a producer of leather goods in Offenbach, Germany. High quality leather products such as pen pouches, notebooks and writing cases were produced under the name Montblanc from then on

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1946

Reconstruction and Development

The Montblanc facilities destroyed during the Second World War were quickly rebuilt.
During this time, Montblanc fountain pens were being produced in Denmark, and representative offices had begun to be re-established abroad

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1952

Perfection of the myth

The legendary “Meisterstück 149” was launched and began its successful career as the world’s most celebrated writing instrument of all time.
The "Meisterstück 149" fountain pen soon became the ultimate symbol for writing culture and a style icon for perfect, timeless design.

Share

Share

1986

“Montblanc - The Art of Writing”

This famous claim “Montblanc - The Art of Writing” was launched and became a model for many brands in the luxury field.
The fountain pen - an ideal writing instrument - started to experience a renaissance in the Eighties.
The “Meisterstück Solitaire Collection," the precious metal version of the Meisterstück, was introduced.
Numerous international sponsorship initiatives in the areas of literature, ballet and music marked the beginning of Montblanc’s world-wide commitment to art and culture.

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1990

Around the world

Montblanc opened its first boutique in Hong Kong.
After initial developments in Asia, the first shops in Europe opened in Paris and London marking the beginning of the expansion of the international Montblanc boutique network, which today consists of more than 350 boutiques in more than 70 countries

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1992

Collector's passion

Montblanc established the Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award to honour outstanding patrons of the arts.
The first Patron of Art Limited Edition pen “Lorenzo di Medici” and the Limited Writers Edition “Hemingway” were launched - the first of the annual editions that are coveted by collectors worldwide.
There was expansion of the Meisterstück range, introducing the product line “New Dimensions” - including small luxury leather goods, handmade paper and desk accessories.

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1993

Richemont

The Dunhill Holding Company, which had bought a major stake of Montblanc in the eighties, was acquired by the Vendôme Luxury Group S.A. in Luxembourg and combined all luxury good companies.
It would later become the Richemont Group, the second largest luxury group in the world, including Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Vacheron Constantin, Jaeger-LeCoultre and IWC amongst others.

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1995

New products and emphasis

Montblanc extended its product portfolio after its second main business driver was introduced.
The "Montblanc Meisterstück Large Leather Collection" presented exclusive, spacious leather products for everyday business and travel.

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1996

Splendid perspectives

Montblanc successfully entered the men's jewelry field with the "Meisterstück Jewelry Collection" - precious accessories for men, completing the "Meisterstück" writing instrument range.
At the same time, Montblanc became founding sponsor of the Philharmonia of the Nations under the direction of Justus Franz.
The "Meisterstück Leonard Bernstein" – the first “donation” pen of Montblanc, was introduced alongside, honouring outstanding personalities from the world of classical music and concurrently supporting the Philharmonia of the Nations.

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1997

Not just a matter of time

Montblanc Montre S.A. was established in Le Locle - the heart of the Swiss watch industry - to maintain the brand’s philosophy of master craftsmanship and to satisfy the high quality expectations made on Meisterstück watches.
Montblanc attracted great attention and recognition among top international jewelers when it participated in the Salon International de Haute Horlogerie (SIHH), the leading watch fair in Geneva and presented the masterly handcrafted Meisterstück watch for the very first time.
Furthermore, the third size of writing instruments – the pocket-sized mini "Meisterstück Hommage à Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart" - was introduced to the market.

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1999

Congratulations

“Montblanc Meisterstück - 75 Years of Passion and Soul” - the legendary writing instrument celebrated its 75th anniversary.
The year also saw the opening of the world’s first Montblanc Flagship Boutique in New York.
The "Solitaire Royal," embellished with 4,810 diamonds, entered the Guinness Book of Records as the most expensive pen in the world.

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2000

Hedonism and performance

"Bohéme" - Montblanc's first major new collection of writing instruments since "Meisterstück" - was launched, devoted to passionate enjoyment of the best in life.
The "Meisterstück Sports" watch collection came to full, active life with the release of seven precious, robust and ruggedly functional timepieces.
The concept of the "Donation Pen" continued with "Yehudi Menuhin" – the new donation pen in cooperation with the Philharnonie of the Nations.

Share

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2001

The scent of success

Montblanc introduced its first fragrance - “Presence” - for unique personalities.
Additionally the perfect solution for every business woman was found: "Ladies' Leather Business Bags" combined luxury, elegance and functionality.

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2002

A new star shines

The new design concept for Montblanc boutiques was introduced with the opening of the new flagship store on the world’s most famous Boulevard, the Champs Elysées in Paris.
The "Profile Collection" - including the first rectangular watch from Montblanc – was presented at the Salon International de Haute Horlogerie in Geneva.
The Montblanc Cutting Edge Art Collection was established as a tribute to the brand's devotion to culture. As a guideline, pieces in the collection must include an interpretation of Montblanc’s world-famous trademark, the white star.
Montblanc became sponsor of the new Young Directors Project at the Salzburg festival, hosting a competition for young international theatre directors.

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2003

Time for a new legend

Montblanc presented "StarWalker" - the new generation of writing instruments for the younger enthusiasts who displayed passion for purist, aesthetic design.
The same year, the innovative “TimeWalker” watch collection as well as the "Westside" and "Eastside" leather ranges were introduced to the market.

Share

Share

2004

Sign up for the right to write

To fight the worldwide issue of illiteracy and to emphasize the importance of the written word Montblanc, in cooperation with UNICEF, asked 149 celebrities such as Mikhail Gorbatchev, Bianca Jagger, Nadja Auermann and Luciano Pavarotti to write a personal statement beginning with, “I like to write because…” with a "Montblanc Meisterstück 149" fountain pen.
The statements, as well as the fountain pens with the celebrity’s engraved signature, were then auctioned off with all proceeds going directly to UNICEF.

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2005

The new Montblanc Jewelry collection

Feminine, variable, elegant – Montblanc presented the three innovative collections of “Montblanc Jewelry” - a genuine affirmation of both contemporary style and timeless refinement.
In the writing instruments sector, a feminine approach had been taken by launching the first female line, "Greta Garbo."

Share

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2006

Soulmakers for 100 years

To celebrate the company’s 100th anniversary, Montblanc launched exclusive Anniversary Editions throughout the year, featuring the Montblanc Diamond.
After eight years of research and development to achieve maximum brilliance, Montblanc was the first brand worldwide to possess its own patented diamond cut derived from its logo.

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2007

The new star

The Montblanc centenary paved the way for the company’s step into the world of diamond jewellery. Based on its unique Montblanc diamond, the company created and introduced a comprehensive and luxurious collection of Fine Jewelry.
At the beginning of 2007, Montblanc joined forces with Minerva S.A in Villeret, a small traditional Swiss watch making manufacture founded in 1858, and jointly founded the Institut Minerva de Recherche en Haute Horlogerie.

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2008

Writing Time

Presenting a milestone in the success story of Montblanc watch making: At the renowned SIHH in Geneva, the MB R100, the first Montblanc calibre manufactured in their own workshops, was presented. This timepiece paid tribute to one of the most innovative spirits in watch making: Nicolas Rieussec, the inventor of the chronograph.
At the same time, the fourth standard line within the portfolio of writing instruments had been implemented with the “Etoile” Collection.
At the same time, the fourth standard line within the portfolio of writing instruments had been implemented with the “Etoile” Collection.

Share

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2009

UNICEF "Signature for Good" initiative

In 2009 Montblanc reinforced its commitment to UNICEF with the launch of its global “Signature for Good” initiative. In this regard, Montblanc developed a unique collection of writing instruments, jewellery and accessories to help raise funds to support UNICEF in their work to provide a quality education to all children. For every piece in the Signature for Good collection sold in the US from June 1, 2009 until May 31, 2010, Montblanc donated 10% of the retail price to support UNICEF's education programs, guaranteeing a minimum of US $1.5 million worldwide from this and other programs.

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2010

World premiere of Metamorphosis

In 2010 Montblanc set new standards in watchmaking by unveiling the Metamorphosis - the first development of the Montblanc Villeret, founded by Montblanc as a dedication to safeguarding traditional Swiss watchmaking.
By its revolutionary design and function the Metamorphosis watch transforms itself from one watch face to the other in a way that no watch has ever done before. It is a highly complex process with new and innovative mechanisms involving 50 individual components that move technically synchronously.

Share

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2011

"Collection Princesse Grace de Monaco"

In 2011 Montblanc unveiled its first collection, consisting of fine jewellery, timepieces and writing instruments, to honour one of the most remarkable individuals of all time: Grace Kelly, who later became Her Serene Highness Princesse Grace de Monaco. Remembered as a true icon of the 20th century, Grace Kelly is a woman celebrated for her iconic timeless style, her artistic talent as an Oscar winning actress and her unrelenting commitment to helping others. She inspired an entire generation and is still considered today to epitomize the archetype of beauty, elegance and style.
Sharing her ideals of personal fulfillment, compassion and family values, Montblanc brings Princesse Grace de Monaco into the spotlight with the sumptuous new tribute collection that is true to Princess Grace of Monaco’s much admired style and sophistication. Feminine and timelessly elegant, the pieces from the „Collection Princesse Grace de Monaco“ are the most exquisite ever crafted in Montblanc’s Ateliers, every detail inspired by this icon’s spirit and attention to style.

Share

The start of the "modern" new century had a simulating effect on inventors and craftsmen. Ingenuity and
imagination helped the fountain pen to make its technical and commercial breakthrough as a writing instrument. It was a Hamburg banker, Alfred Nehemias, and a Berlin engineer, August Eberstein, together who recognised the signs of time and decided to produce simplicissimus pens.
After a short period of time Wilhelm Dziambor, Christian Lausen and later Claus Johannes Voss took over the business and thus laid the founda/on for the future internationally successful company Montblanc.

Share

“Manufacturers of high-class gold and fountain pens” - Montblanc started its history by making this confident claim for itself.
For the time being, the partners took the name “Simplo Filler Pen Co.”. “Simplo” referred to either the idea of the simplicissimus pen or the word “simple,” which described new pen design, including a “build-in” ink-well.
After the Hamburg businessman Claus Johannes Voss joined the company, the “Simplo Filler Pen Co.” was established with its headquarter situated in the “Industriepalast” on Caffamacherreihe in Hamburg and received entry into the commercial register.

Share

The safety fountain pen “Rouge et Noir” appeared on the market.
The name “Montblanc” was established; and rumour has it that it took place during a card game when a relative of one of the partners drew an inspired analogy between the pen, which had become the pinnacle of writing instruments, and the Mont Blanc, the most majestic and highest peak in the Alps.

Share

The name “Montblanc“ was registered as a trademark and henceforth used for all writing instruments produced by the company.
Furthermore the technically improved fountain pen “Montblanc“ was introduced. The white tip on the pen cap was the forerunner of what would become the world famous white star.
Paris and London became the venues of Simplo‘s first representatives abroad.

Share

The Montblanc star emblem became the brand logo and trademark. All writing instruments produced by the “Simplo Filler Pen Co. “ ever since would include the unmistakable rounded star.
The shape would represent the snow-covered peak of the Mont Blanc - the highest European mountain, symbolising the brand’s commitment to the highest quality and finest European craftsmanship.

Share

It was the year of the launch of the legendary “Meisterstück” and the beginning of its successful career as the world’s most celebrated writing instrument of all time.
The "Meisterstück 149" fountain pen soon became the ultimate symbol for writing culture and the style icon for perfect timeless design.

Share

At the end of the twenties, Montblanc quickly expanded into a well-known name in more than 60 different countries.
Impressive advertising campaigns, like fitting cars with an oversize fountain pen as well as the first advertising planes taking Montblanc name into the “third dimension,” attracted tremendous attention.

Share

For the first time, the heart of the Montblanc "Meisterstück" - its nib - was engraved with the number “4810.”
This represents the height of the mountain Mont Blanc, and acts as a sign of supreme quality, and "4810" would find a place on all "Meisterstück" nibs from this time forth.

Share

By issuing a “lifetime guarantee" for the "Meisterstück," Montblanc demonstrated that it always paid off for the customer to opt for the very best.
Montblanc expanded its product range by taking over a producer of leather goods in Offenbach, Germany. High quality leather products such as pen pouches, notebooks and writing cases were produced under the name Montblanc from then on

Share

The Montblanc facilities destroyed during the Second World War were quickly rebuilt.
During this time, Montblanc fountain pens were being produced in Denmark, and representative offices had begun to be re-established abroad

Share

The legendary “Meisterstück 149” was launched and began its successful career as the world’s most celebrated writing instrument of all time.
The "Meisterstück 149" fountain pen soon became the ultimate symbol for writing culture and a style icon for perfect, timeless design.

Share

This famous claim “Montblanc - The Art of Writing” was launched and became a model for many brands in the luxury field.
The fountain pen - an ideal writing instrument - started to experience a renaissance in the Eighties.
The “Meisterstück Solitaire Collection," the precious metal version of the Meisterstück, was introduced.
Numerous international sponsorship initiatives in the areas of literature, ballet and music marked the beginning of Montblanc’s world-wide commitment to art and culture.

Share

Montblanc opened its first boutique in Hong Kong.
After initial developments in Asia, the first shops in Europe opened in Paris and London marking the beginning of the expansion of the international Montblanc boutique network, which today consists of more than 350 boutiques in more than 70 countries

Share

Montblanc established the Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award to honour outstanding patrons of the arts.
The first Patron of Art Limited Edition pen “Lorenzo di Medici” and the Limited Writers Edition “Hemingway” were launched - the first of the annual editions that are coveted by collectors worldwide.
There was expansion of the Meisterstück range, introducing the product line “New Dimensions” - including small luxury leather goods, handmade paper and desk accessories.

Share

The Dunhill Holding Company, which had bought a major stake of Montblanc in the eighties, was acquired by the Vendôme Luxury Group S.A. in Luxembourg and combined all luxury good companies.
It would later become the Richemont Group, the second largest luxury group in the world, including Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Vacheron Constantin, Jaeger-LeCoultre and IWC amongst others.

Share

Montblanc extended its product portfolio after its second main business driver was introduced.
The "Montblanc Meisterstück Large Leather Collection" presented exclusive, spacious leather products for everyday business and travel.

Share

Montblanc successfully entered the men's jewelry field with the "Meisterstück Jewelry Collection" - precious accessories for men, completing the "Meisterstück" writing instrument range.
At the same time, Montblanc became founding sponsor of the Philharmonia of the Nations under the direction of Justus Franz.
The "Meisterstück Leonard Bernstein" – the first “donation” pen of Montblanc, was introduced alongside, honouring outstanding personalities from the world of classical music and concurrently supporting the Philharmonia of the Nations.

Share

Montblanc Montre S.A. was established in Le Locle - the heart of the Swiss watch industry - to maintain the brand’s philosophy of master craftsmanship and to satisfy the high quality expectations made on Meisterstück watches.
Montblanc attracted great attention and recognition among top international jewelers when it participated in the Salon International de Haute Horlogerie (SIHH), the leading watch fair in Geneva and presented the masterly handcrafted Meisterstück watch for the very first time.
Furthermore, the third size of writing instruments – the pocket-sized mini "Meisterstück Hommage à Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart" - was introduced to the market.

Share

“Montblanc Meisterstück - 75 Years of Passion and Soul” - the legendary writing instrument celebrated its 75th anniversary.
The year also saw the opening of the world’s first Montblanc Flagship Boutique in New York.
The "Solitaire Royal," embellished with 4,810 diamonds, entered the Guinness Book of Records as the most expensive pen in the world.

Share

"Bohéme" - Montblanc's first major new collection of writing instruments since "Meisterstück" - was launched, devoted to passionate enjoyment of the best in life.
The "Meisterstück Sports" watch collection came to full, active life with the release of seven precious, robust and ruggedly functional timepieces.
The concept of the "Donation Pen" continued with "Yehudi Menuhin" – the new donation pen in cooperation with the Philharnonie of the Nations.

Share

Montblanc introduced its first fragrance - “Presence” - for unique personalities.
Additionally the perfect solution for every business woman was found: "Ladies' Leather Business Bags" combined luxury, elegance and functionality.

Share

The new design concept for Montblanc boutiques was introduced with the opening of the new flagship store on the world’s most famous Boulevard, the Champs Elysées in Paris.
The "Profile Collection" - including the first rectangular watch from Montblanc – was presented at the Salon International de Haute Horlogerie in Geneva.
The Montblanc Cutting Edge Art Collection was established as a tribute to the brand's devotion to culture. As a guideline, pieces in the collection must include an interpretation of Montblanc’s world-famous trademark, the white star.
Montblanc became sponsor of the new Young Directors Project at the Salzburg festival, hosting a competition for young international theatre directors.

Share

Montblanc presented "StarWalker" - the new generation of writing instruments for the younger enthusiasts who displayed passion for purist, aesthetic design.
The same year, the innovative “TimeWalker” watch collection as well as the "Westside" and "Eastside" leather ranges were introduced to the market.

Share

To fight the worldwide issue of illiteracy and to emphasize the importance of the written word Montblanc, in cooperation with UNICEF, asked 149 celebrities such as Mikhail Gorbatchev, Bianca Jagger, Nadja Auermann and Luciano Pavarotti to write a personal statement beginning with, “I like to write because…” with a "Montblanc Meisterstück 149" fountain pen.
The statements, as well as the fountain pens with the celebrity’s engraved signature, were then auctioned off with all proceeds going directly to UNICEF.

Share

Feminine, variable, elegant – Montblanc presented the three innovative collections of “Montblanc Jewelry” - a genuine affirmation of both contemporary style and timeless refinement.
In the writing instruments sector, a feminine approach had been taken by launching the first female line, "Greta Garbo."

Share

To celebrate the company’s 100th anniversary, Montblanc launched exclusive Anniversary Editions throughout the year, featuring the Montblanc Diamond.
After eight years of research and development to achieve maximum brilliance, Montblanc was the first brand worldwide to possess its own patented diamond cut derived from its logo.

Share

The Montblanc centenary paved the way for the company’s step into the world of diamond jewellery. Based on its unique Montblanc diamond, the company created and introduced a comprehensive and luxurious collection of Fine Jewelry.
At the beginning of 2007, Montblanc joined forces with Minerva S.A in Villeret, a small traditional Swiss watch making manufacture founded in 1858, and jointly founded the Institut Minerva de Recherche en Haute Horlogerie.

Share

Presenting a milestone in the success story of Montblanc watch making: At the renowned SIHH in Geneva, the MB R100, the first Montblanc calibre manufactured in their own workshops, was presented. This timepiece paid tribute to one of the most innovative spirits in watch making: Nicolas Rieussec, the inventor of the chronograph.
At the same time, the fourth standard line within the portfolio of writing instruments had been implemented with the “Etoile” Collection.
At the same time, the fourth standard line within the portfolio of writing instruments had been implemented with the “Etoile” Collection.

Share

In 2009 Montblanc reinforced its commitment to UNICEF with the launch of its global “Signature for Good” initiative. In this regard, Montblanc developed a unique collection of writing instruments, jewellery and accessories to help raise funds to support UNICEF in their work to provide a quality education to all children. For every piece in the Signature for Good collection sold in the US from June 1, 2009 until May 31, 2010, Montblanc donated 10% of the retail price to support UNICEF's education programs, guaranteeing a minimum of US $1.5 million worldwide from this and other programs.

Share

In 2010 Montblanc set new standards in watchmaking by unveiling the Metamorphosis - the first development of the Montblanc Villeret, founded by Montblanc as a dedication to safeguarding traditional Swiss watchmaking.
By its revolutionary design and function the Metamorphosis watch transforms itself from one watch face to the other in a way that no watch has ever done before. It is a highly complex process with new and innovative mechanisms involving 50 individual components that move technically synchronously.

Share

In 2011 Montblanc unveiled its first collection, consisting of fine jewellery, timepieces and writing instruments, to honour one of the most remarkable individuals of all time: Grace Kelly, who later became Her Serene Highness Princesse Grace de Monaco. Remembered as a true icon of the 20th century, Grace Kelly is a woman celebrated for her iconic timeless style, her artistic talent as an Oscar winning actress and her unrelenting commitment to helping others. She inspired an entire generation and is still considered today to epitomize the archetype of beauty, elegance and style.
Sharing her ideals of personal fulfillment, compassion and family values, Montblanc brings Princesse Grace de Monaco into the spotlight with the sumptuous new tribute collection that is true to Princess Grace of Monaco’s much admired style and sophistication. Feminine and timelessly elegant, the pieces from the „Collection Princesse Grace de Monaco“ are the most exquisite ever crafted in Montblanc’s Ateliers, every detail inspired by this icon’s spirit and attention to style.